Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust (YAS) is encouraging everyone to stay safe over the bank holiday weekend, so that emergency ambulances will be available for those who urgently need them.

There is usually an increase in 999 calls around bank holidays as many people head out to celebrate the long weekend and enjoy the extra day off work.

Figures show that this time last year, YAS responded to nearly 7,800 incidents, and this three-day weekend is expected to be just as busy.

Stephen Segasby, Deputy Director of Operations at Yorkshire Ambulance Service, said: "More of us tend to be out and about over the bank holiday weekend and this can lead to more people falling ill or suffering injuries and needing medical attention.

"We often see an increase in alcohol-fuelled incidents too, and whilst we don't want to spoil anyone's enjoyment, we are asking people to keep themselves and others safe."

Emergencies in which you should call 999 for an ambulance include chest pain, heavy loss of blood, head injury and loss of consciousness.

However, inappropriate 999 calls are conditions such as earache, toothache and a sore throat.

As the bank holiday weekend is underway, YAS is reminding everyone that other healthcare services are available for non-emergencies and less serious conditions.

This includes the non-emergency number NHS 111, local pharmacies, minor injuries units, walk-in-centres or urgent care centres.

The NHS Choices website is available to help people find their nearest service, as well as providing advice on minor conditions.

Stephen added: "We certainly don't want to discourage anyone from calling 999 in a genuine emergency, but we are asking them to consider whether an ambulance is the most appropriate service for their needs.

"Our staff often respond to patients who have reported a serious condition, but find they have a minor illness or injury which could have been treated by an alternative service.

"We want people to enjoy their bank holiday weekend and keep our ambulance crews available for those in a serious or life-threatening condition."